Wayne Gretzky recently discussed the backlash he faced from Canadians regarding his identity during an interview on the 100% Hockey podcast. The hockey legend expressed that he never intended to offend anyone and emphasized his pride in being Canadian. In the interview with broadcasters Daren Millard and John Shannon, Gretzky reflected on the criticism he received after being introduced as the honorary captain of Team Canada at the 4 Nations Face-Off final in February. Fans booed him when he walked past the American bench without wearing a Canadian jersey. "People are going to say and believe what they want. The bottom line is, I know in my heart I’m Canadian, I’ve stayed Canadian and I’m a Canadian for life," Gretzky said. He acknowledged that the comments from U.S. President Donald Trump, who suggested Canada should become the 51st state, were hurtful. Gretzky noted that he cannot control what political figures say. "I can’t stop the Prime Minister from saying something. I can’t stop the President from saying something. I just kind of like, well, I’m just a hockey player, simple as that," he stated. The former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau reached out to Gretzky during the controversy to offer his support. Gretzky recalled their conversation, saying, "It was a wonderful phone call that he reached out. He gave me a great line. He said, ‘I’m giving you a hug call.’ I said, ‘OK, I needed it right now.’" Gretzky, 64, has not publicly commented on his close friendship with Trump, although he was seen at Trump’s election night party in Florida. He clarified that he has never become an American citizen, stating, "I’m Canadian. I can’t vote in the U.S. because I live in the U.S. and I’m Canadian. I can’t vote in Canada because I don’t live in Canada." He acknowledged the pride Canadians have in their identity and the emotions that come with it. "Oh, sure, because Canadians are proud. But here are the two factors: I don’t know how many people move to the U.S., whether it’s business or entertainment, hockey, and I don’t know the exact number, but I would tell you that over 90% of them become American citizens. I never became an American citizen," he said. Gretzky's comments highlight the complexities of national identity, especially for those in the public eye. He remains committed to his Canadian roots despite the challenges he faces in the spotlight.